Preschool

Terrific Turtles Class : Mrs. Donna

Age range: 2 ½ to late 3’s, early 4 year olds

The preschool program encompasses self-help skills, decision making & the beginnings of more academic skills, which are learned through play and games.

The children continue to work in discovery centers, which include dramatic play, construction, science, math, manipulatives, toys and games, music & movement, library, writing center and creative arts. The children practice academic skills through hands-on exploration and teacher directed activities.

Welcome to Our Class

This science activity started in the classroom where children had the opportunity to explore growth rings of a tree. Initially, the children did not make the connection that this was a part of a tree, but looked, touched, removed the bark, used magnifiers and made remarks about the smell.

We went outside to look at a tree! Seeing a tree, touching the bark, and smelling the tree provided the experience to make a connection to the tree rings we were exploring.

The learning that took place: Through using their senses, the children were examining, categorizing, discoveries and making sense of the world. Descriptive terms emerged: The tree is rough, has lines, it is hard and smooth.

Another important learning experience developed; the children wanted to use rulers to measure the tree!

Curriculum

CCDC staff, parents, and consultants work closely together to design a curriculum based on the following goals for early childhood development:

Social/Emotional

We offer activities that promote self-confidence, self-motivation, and respect for others.

Language/Literacy

We encourage children to use oral and written communication to describe their ideas, observations, and feelings.

Cognitive

We stimulate cognitive growth by emphasizing thinking, experimenting, and respect for diversity.

Creative Expression

We promote creative expressionthrough art, music, and drama.

Physical

We offer activities that promote large and smallmuscle development.

Health

We teach children how to be safe and promoteindependence. We provide nutritious foods and promote good eating habits.